If you’re searching for a soul-warming meal that’s both hearty and full of flavor, this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite. Imagine a simmering pot of savory Italian sausage, earthy lentils, and a medley of colorful vegetables, all coming together in perfect harmony. The result is a robust, satisfying soup that’s ideal for chilly evenings, easy weeknight dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. One spoonful, and you’ll see why this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe is a staple in my kitchen and always a hit with family and friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the beauties of this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe is how a few simple ingredients, when combined, create layers of comforting, complex flavor. Each item in this list plays its part—whether it’s bringing savory depth, vibrant texture, or just the right hint of color to your bowl.
- Italian sausage: Mild or spicy, this adds a punch of flavor and meaty texture that makes the soup incredibly satisfying.
- Olive oil: For sautéing and infusing the base with richness—use a good-quality oil for the best result.
- Onion: Diced and cooked until soft, onion forms the aromatic foundation for the soup.
- Carrots: Their natural sweetness balances out the savory notes and adds lovely orange color.
- Celery: Brings a subtle, aromatic crunch that enhances the overall flavor.
- Garlic: Just three cloves give the soup a savory kick that’s irresistible.
- Dried lentils: Use brown or green; rinsed well, they cook up plump and hearty and add plenty of fiber.
- Chicken broth: The backbone of a flavorful soup; go with low-sodium if you want to control the salt.
- Diced tomatoes: The juice adds tang and color, while the tomatoes contribute freshness and a touch of sweetness.
- Dried thyme: Adds an unmistakable earthy, herby aroma.
- Dried oregano: Brings a savory, Mediterranean feel that pairs beautifully with sausage.
- Smoked paprika: Just half a teaspoon gives a wonderful smoky undertone to the entire pot.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors together—season to taste.
- Kale or spinach (optional): For a burst of green color and nutrient-density—either works fabulously.
- Red wine vinegar (optional): A splash at the end adds brightness and lifts the whole dish.
How to Make Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage (make sure it’s crumbled or casings removed) and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and fully cooked through. This crucial step gives you those crave-worthy, caramelized bits. Once done, scoop the sausage out with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving behind those flavorful drippings that’ll form the soup’s backbone.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base
In the same pot, toss in your diced onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for around 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and pick up a bit of color. The mixture should smell fragrant and inviting. Now, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just about 30 seconds—you want to release its aroma, but not let it burn.
Step 3: Add Lentils, Broth, and Seasonings
Next, add your rinsed lentils, chicken broth, can of diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and return the browned sausage to the pot. Stir everything together gently, making sure those spices are distributed evenly and nothing’s sticking to the bottom. This is where the Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe really starts coming together!
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let everything simmer for 30 to 35 minutes. This is the magical simmer, where the lentils swell and absorb all the savory goodness while the sausage and veggies tenderize. At this stage, your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing.
Step 5: Add Greens and Brighten
If you’re using kale or spinach, add it in now, and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes until the greens wilt and become tender. If you love a bright finish, stir in the red wine vinegar, which instantly lifts and freshens all the deep flavors. Taste, then adjust the salt and pepper if needed before serving your homemade Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe hot.
How to Serve Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Finish each steaming bowl with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. Cracked black pepper gives a little kick, and a squeeze of lemon brightens the flavors wonderfully. These simple touches can make your Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe feel extra special and restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with a warm crusty baguette or a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. For something heartier, try a slice of garlic bread or even a grilled cheese sandwich for dunking—trust me, it’s an unbeatable cozy combination.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this soup in rustic bread bowls for a fun, edible twist that’s sure to wow any guests. Pour it into mason jars for portable lunches or layer with extra greens in deep bowls for a stunning, vibrant look. However you present it, this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe always finds a way to shine at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making next-day servings even more delicious. Just give the soup a quick stir before reheating since the lentils may thicken the broth as it chills.
Freezing
This soup is a freezer champion! Ladle cooled portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a comforting meal, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or gently on the stovetop. It’s incredibly handy for busy weeks.
Reheating
Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of water or broth if it’s become too thick. You can also microwave single servings, stirring midway for even heating. The flavors will blossom again with each warm bowl—it’s one of the joys of this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Soup
Absolutely! Feel free to try turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a smoky kielbasa for a slightly different flavor profile. Vegetarian sausage works, too, for a meat-free option—just be mindful to adjust the seasonings to complement your choice.
How can I make this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe vegan?
To make a vegan version, simply omit the sausage or swap in your favorite plant-based sausage alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup will still be rich, hearty, and loaded with flavor!
My lentils are still a bit firm—what should I do?
If the lentils aren’t quite tender after the initial simmer time, just cover the pot and cook for an extra 5-10 minutes, checking occasionally. Different lentil varieties and ages can need slightly more or less time, so a taste test is the best way to judge.
Can I add more vegetables to this soup?
Definitely! This recipe is a wonderful base for extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Just chop them up and sauté with the other vegetables, or toss in near the end for a little extra texture and color.
Is this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! As long as your sausage and broth are certified gluten-free, this soup fits perfectly into a gluten-free diet. Always double-check labels if you’re sensitive, but the core ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
If you’re in the mood for something wholesome, flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying, I can’t recommend this Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe enough. Give it a try the next time you need a meal that brings warmth to your table and smiles all around—you’ll see why it’s such a beloved classic!
Print
Sausage Lentil Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and flavorful Sausage Lentil Soup recipe that is perfect for a cozy meal. This soup combines the richness of Italian sausage with nutritious lentils and vegetables in a comforting broth.
Ingredients
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (optional)
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (optional, for brightness)
Instructions
- Cook Sausage: In a large pot, cook sausage until browned; set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft. Add garlic.
- Add Ingredients: Stir in lentils, broth, tomatoes, spices, and cooked sausage. Simmer until lentils are tender.
- Finish Soup: Add kale/spinach, vinegar, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, omit sausage and use vegetable broth.
- Add extra veggies like zucchini or bell pepper for variety.
- This soup tastes even better the next day and freezes well.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
